Abstract
AbstractIntroductionIliac vein obstructions account for 2%–3% of all lower limb deep vein thromboses (DVT). Delayed diagnosis can lead to a higher risk of limb ischemia in the acute setting and post‐thrombotic syndrome in the chronic setting. The purpose of this audit was to determine whether sonographers were taking and interpreting waveforms correctly at the common femoral vein (CFV).MethodsA retrospective audit was performed of all the DVT patients (n = 375) over the course of 3 months. Changes in phasicity during Valsalva, respiration or augmentation of the spectral waveform at the CFV was recorded.ResultsWithin the cohort group of 375 examinations assessed. Only 277 (74%) patients had spectral traces taken at the level of the CFV. 29 (10%) patients had persistent monophasic waveforms that did not change significantly when a Valsalva manoeuvre was performed, eight patients (2%) had confirmed iliofemoral vein obstruction with either ultrasound or computed tomography venogram.ConclusionThe audit results show that spectral traces at the CFV are not always being taken or assessed effectively in clinical practice for various reasons; highlighting a potential clinical risk. With a combination of education, improved department protocols and workflow strategies, the standard of sonography should be improved.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.